New Car Reviews

Fiat Chrysler, Ford, and GM have each announced the discontinuation of several car models in recent years, including the Dodge Dart, Chrysler 200, Ford Focus, and the Buick LaCrosse. Apparently, these manufacturers have read the writing on the wall, which in no unmistakable terms indicates “crossovers.”

The reason manufacturers are moving away from the coupes and sedans that once defined each company is apparent: SUVs and trucks are a hot commodity. They’re also much more profitable than conventional cars. And the data supports that consumers want them.

Not every manufacturer is following this reasoning — at least not completely — as they believe there is something of value by remaining in a shrinking segment. Indeed, companies such as Honda (Accord), Toyota (Camry) and now Nissan are doubling down by offering new versions of their still popular midsize sedans. For Nissan, that means its Altima model not only sees its sixth generation, but brings several important changes of note.

2019 Nissan Altima Overview

What changes mark the 2019 Altima? There are many, in fact, there may be too many to cover in a standard review. That’s why we’ll spend some extra time mentioning the key points and then drilling down on each one.

1. Its dimensions are slightly larger.

Over the years, we’ve seen the Altima grow. Early on it was a compact model, then it made the transition to a midsize car. The coupe is no longer available, leaving the sedan as the lone body style of choice.

For 2019, the Altima gains some size, with nearly an extra two inches between the wheels (109.3 v. 111.2 inches). Overall, its length is just one inch longer as Nissan trimmed its overhangs. Its width is nearly an inch wider and the Altima’s height is incrementally taller. Overall, you have a sedan that has improved legroom and a trunk size that’s unchanged (15.4 cubic feet).

It is worth noting that the all-new Altima is larger than the 2019 Maxima, the brand’s flagship sedan. We’re not sure what Nissan’s long-term strategy is with the Maxima, but if you’re looking for potent V6 power, the Maxima has it.

2. Two engine choices, but with a difference.

Nissan has long offered a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine as standard equipment and that hasn’t changed. What has changed is the engine itself — it is a new design with a lower profile, improvements in noise, vibration and harshness, and updates to various parts, including to the intake port, control valve, and the oil pump.

As a result of these changes, the 2019 Altima offers more power than the previous model (188 hp; 180 lb.-ft. of torque v. 177 hp; 179 lb.-ft. of torque) and a slight boost in fuel efficiency. Notably, the new Altima is rated as high as 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.

The more significant change for 2019 has everything to do with the optional engine. Gone is the previous 3.5-liter V6, as it has been replaced by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.

What’s significant about this new engine is that it is the first variable compression design of its kind, ranging from 8:1 (for high performance) and 14:1 (for high efficiency). By mastering the typically fixed compression ratio, the automaker squeezes out more power when needed or makes this engine more efficient. This engine makes 248 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque compared to the 270 horsepower and 251 pound-feet of torque of the V6 [we tested it in the 2019 Infiniti QX50].

In effect, Nissan delivers a wash for an engine that has a smaller footprint. Importantly, the new engine is more efficient too — as equipped the Altima makes 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. That’s up from 22/32 mpg city/highway with the V6.

As before, both engines work with a continuously variable transmission, which is a gearless automatic transmission often referenced as a CVT.

3. Did someone say, “all-wheel drive?”

All-wheel drive is a bit of an anomaly in the mainstream midsize sedan segment. Subaru offers standard all-wheel drive with its Legacy and has done so for years. Ford has all-wheel drive on the Fusion Sport, but we know the Fusion’s days are numbered. Previously, the Chrysler 200 had an all-wheel-drive option, but that sedan was discontinued following the 2017 model year.

The 2019 Altima comes with standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive. The latter is available only with the standard 2.5-liter engine and not with the turbo. A Nissan executive told me that the decision to go with all-wheel drive was due in part to demand for all-wheel-drive versions of the popular Rogue crossover. Customers want the option, especially in snowy areas. Obviously, the Altima gives shoppers an option that few competitors offer.

4. Technologies expand. Again.

Apart from engine technology — and that’s not a small thing — Nissan continues to refine and update its other technologies. Most trims come with ProPILOT Assist, which Nissan says serves as the foundation for autonomous vehicles of the future.

We’ve tried the system in several Nissan models, but it wasn’t offered in our test SR trim. Nevertheless, this system is ideal for single-lane driving, particularly when you’re driving long distances and can use a little relief in the acceleration, steering, and braking categories. It is designed to lessen driver fatigue and imbue confidence when behind the wheel.

A Matter of Design

We couldn’t help but notice that the new Altima has some of the design cues of the Maxima, Nissan’s flagship sedan. Apparent on first sight is the floating roof design, a Maxima feature. It is nicely executed on the Altima, giving this sedan a premium look.

Up front, the grille stands out like never before. That’s due in part to the plunging hood, including the creases that meet the grille’s edge. It is also the latest expression of Nissan’s V-motion grille, which places a bigger accent on the headlamps. Other standout features include a rising beltline, a pronounced rear deck with large wraparound tail lamps, and diffuser-like trim with dual exhaust ports.

The list of standard exterior features includes 16-inch steel wheels. Among the upgrades are LED lights, fog lights, aluminum alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, and a rear spoiler.

Inside, the cabin is spacious with excellent sightlines, a layered dashboard with twin stitching and a clean instrument panel. The overall look seems a cut above for the segment, although most manufacturers are similarly well adorned. I particularly like the “bolt-on” design of the center display as it is easy to read, but it doesn’t clutter the look. Lots of soft-touch materials dress the cabin with a touch of elegance. My SR model featured contrast stitching running down the center of the seats.

The amount of legroom up front will please even the tallest passengers. Nissan says it measures 45 inches, which is at the top of the spectrum amongst all vehicles. The rear seat doesn’t have as much legroom, but three can still sit in comfort. In all, the new Altima seems larger than what it is.

Nissan equips the 2019 Altima with full power accessories, a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, air conditioning, a power driver’s seat, heated front seats, map lights, and rear reading lights. The list of upgrades includes leather-trimmed seats, dual-zone climate control, and interior accent lighting.

Safety & Technology

We’ve already looked at the technologies available, but one point is worth repeating: ProPILOT Assist is not available with the base models. It is standard beginning with the SV trim.

As for the standard audio package, you’ll find a six-speaker audio system with HD Radio, satellite radio, four USB ports (two front and two rear), Siri Eyes Free, Google Assistant, Bluetooth, and an 8-inch color display. Move away from the base models and you’ll find a 9-speaker Bose audio system.

Concerning navigation, you can obtain it through your smartphone thanks to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Otherwise, a navigation package is standard beginning with the SL trim.

On the Road

Today’s family sedans are powered by four-cylinder engines — almost exclusively too. A V6 isn’t necessary to move these models, although they are missed by some. Fortunately, the base engine in the Altima is quite adept as it delivers an ideal combination of kick and efficiency.

Nissan pairs this engine with a continuously variable transmission. Its a package loved by some and detested by others, although the efficiencies gained cannot be argued with. Further, Nissan’s powertrain mapping ensures that the CVT never taxes the engine to the point where it sounds like something will snap. Instead, as the RPMs reach peak levels, they kick back a bit before climbing again.

Most people will find the Altima delivers ample step-off acceleration and passing power. Steering is light, not especially engaging, while handling is spot on and is particularly sharp in the SR edition.

What really got our attention was this sedan’s efficiency. While we didn’t track fuel economy specifically, we did notice how slowly the fuel needle made its move. In fact, after exactly 250 miles of driving, the gas gauge still hadn’t touched the halfway point. We’ve seen many smaller cars come up short in the mileage department, but the Altima didn’t. Not only that, it excels. Fuel prices may be low (as of this writing), but cost savings at the pump are still noteworthy.

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Build a 2019 Altima and you’ll be presented with 13 options. That’s a lot for a midsize sedan. However, some of those choices are overlapped by the all-wheel-drive and turbo engine options.

The base S model starts at $23,900 and is followed by the SR ($25,250), SV ($28,080), SL ($29,990), and Platinum ($33,750) editions. Add $895 for the destination charge. Upgrading to all-wheel drive adds another $1,350.

As for the turbo option, you’ll find it on three trims: SR ($29,300), Platinum ($34,930), and Edition ONE ($35,750).

You’ll also find package options on some trims, but not on all. For example, a Premium Package ($1,050, power sliding glass moonroof, heated outside mirrors with turn signal indicators, and heated front seats) is available with the SR model.

Our choice is the SR edition with front-wheel drive. It is a great place to start and end your search, but we realize that some people will want additional amenities found further up the trim range.

We like the all-wheel-drive option and think it’ll be the choice of a significant number of shoppers in snow-bound states. To date, you may have done well with front-wheel drive, especially if you place winter tires on the front wheels. That said, the AWD option is worth your consideration. Just remember that it comes only with the standard engine.

All in all, the 2019 Altima presents a strong option in a still very competitive segment. Nissan could have chosen to heavily refresh its midsize sedan and called it a day. Instead, the automaker invested a tidy sum of cash to not only keep the Altima relevant, but make it a formidable model amongst its peers.

The 2019 model year is the transition point between what was and what soon will be. The previous Santa Fe Sport was renamed the Santa Fe and redesigned. We reviewed that model here. As for the previous Santa Fe, it is still around and now sports a new name: Santa Fe XL. The XL allows Hyundai to buy some time as it readies the Palisade, its replacement model.

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe XL Overview

Hyundai, of course, doesn’t want SUV shoppers to forget about its current 7-passenger SUV and that’s why one was sent my way early in the new year. The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe XL comes in just two trims: SE ($31,895) and Limited Ultimate ($40,595). Prices include the $1,045 destination charge. Add $1,750 for all-wheel drive.

Other than the name change, the only other changes for 2019 involve packaging. Otherwise, this model is carried over for its final year.

A Matter of Design

The Hyundai Santa Fe XL has one of the more wagon-like designs of any crossover available. Its silhouette suggests a tall wagon as its corners are more rounded and its profile free flowing.

Up front, the familiar trapezoidal grille dominates and is flanked by upswept headlamps with LED accent lights. A smaller, lower grille opening and side pockets for the available LED fog lamps are also present. The look is at once elegant and sporty. The XL’s profile features a high beltline, a long roofline and the usual chrome and character line embellishments. Pretty wheel choices put the accent on style here. From the rear, the XL is adorned with a liftgate spoiler, wraparound tail lamps, and diffuser-like trim with a pair of exhaust ports.

Standard features include automatic headlight control, heated side mirrors, roof rack side rails, and alloy wheels. Upgrades include a panoramic sunroof, roof rack cross rails, keyless entry, and a hands-free liftgate. The latter opens automatically as you approach the liftgate with your key fob present.

Inside, the cabin seats six or seven, depending on the model. Our test XL Ultimate model was a six-seater with middle-row captain’s chairs replacing the standard bench seat. This arrangement ensures that every seating position is quite good, although legroom is a bit limited with the third row.

The swoopy curves of the exterior are brought inside, but are more dramatic here. The dashboard has a layered look with sharp curves and a blend of soft and firm materials evident. Even the vents add drama with their wing-like shape amplifying the center stack.

The driver’s seat is firm, yet comfortable. The XL has excellent sight lines and the controls are easy to find and decipher. If you can get by with six-passenger space, the captain’s chairs are excellent, rivaling the front seats in comfort.

With the second- and third-row seats folded, the Santa Fe XL has 80 cubic feet of storage capacity available. That’s in line with the Ford Explorer (80.7) and GMC Acadia (79.0), but well behind the Chevrolet Traverse (98.2).

Safety & Technology

Standard safety features include a rearview camera, hill start assist, and stability and traction control.

If you want advanced driver-assist features, then the Tech Package ($2,100) available only with the Limited Ultimate model is the way to go. Here, you’ll find smart cruise control with full stop and go, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning. This package also includes HID headlights, dynamic bending light technology, high beam assist, and an electronic parking brake.

Hyundai equips the Santa Fe XL with a six-speaker audio system, HD Radio, satellite radio, USB ports, and an auxiliary jack. You’ll also find smartphone compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A 7-inch display audio system is also standard. Upgrades include an Infinity audio system, an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation, and a 115-volt power outlet in the cargo area.

On the Road

Hyundai has always divided the Santa Fe by more than just rows. For instance, the two-row variants have four-cylinder engines, while the three-row is powered by a 3.3-liter V6 good for 290 horsepower and 252 pound-feet of torque, making it one of the most power-dense engines available in this segment. Power is routed to the wheels by means of a six-speed automatic transmission.

And the V6 gets the job done, as it offers ample step-off acceleration and passing power. There is no boosting at work, so power kicks in early and delivers consistently. The automatic transmission shifts seamlessly and never hunts for gears. We could wish for a more efficient eight-speed, but that’ll have to wait until its replacement model rolls out.

Like any crossover, this one has its share of body rolls as you navigate twisty roads or pull out of a turn. On the plus side, the XL supplies a comfortable ride and a quiet interior. It can also tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. That’s in line with the Toyota Highlander, although 1,000 pounds under the Nissan Pathfinder.

As for off-roading, this utility vehicle is designed for light-duty work only. You can tackle the gravel trail, but you’ll want to avoid mud and rocky terrain.

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So, should you wait for the Palisade or jump in and purchase a Santa Fe XL? If you absolutely cannot wait, the XL delivers the goods and at a reasonable price point.

We recommend the Ultimate edition as it brings in everything this model has to offer. Opt for the Tech Package ($2,100) for advanced driver-assist safety features. With available all-wheel drive, your final cost will come in around $45,000, which is before discounting and aligns well with the competition.